District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 6, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Nicholas Perry, age 31, was sentenced to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From May 2017 through August 2017, co-conspirator Dana Faulkner transported and arranged transportation of 15-45 kilograms of methamphetamine to South Dakota from Colorado. Perry was one of the multiple sub-distributors who dealt Faulkner’s methamphetamine in the Rapid City area. Faulkner was previously sentenced to 25 years in federal prison.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case. Multiple co-conspirators have already been sentenced.
Perry was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on December 9, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Eugene Leon Featherman, age 31, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Featherman was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2018. He pled guilty on October 9, 2019.
Featherman was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in January 2012. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for a period of 25 years. Between August 25, 2018, and November 14, 2018, Featherman failed to properly update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Featherman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Failure to RegisterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on December 10, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Cody Grass, age 35, was sentenced to 8 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stemmed from Grass, who is a person required to register for a period of 25 years under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, knowingly failing to register and update his registration from July 2018 until the time of his apprehension in June 2019.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Grass was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Woman Indicted for Theft of Federal FundsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today a Pierre, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft from a Program Receiving Federal Funds.
Dawn R. Seaboy Block, age 52, was indicted on November 13, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 6, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between October 2018 and May 2019, while she was employed as an agent of the United Sioux Tribes of South Dakota Development Corporation (USTDC), Block did embezzle, steal, obtain by fraud, and intentionally misapply property of USTDC, an organization receiving Federal funds.
The charge is merely an accusation and Block is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
McLaughlin Woman Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman convicted of assault of a federal officer was sentenced on December 4, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Claudette Mae Has Horns, age 32, was sentenced to time served, which was 10 months in federal custody and over 3 months in tribal custody, totaling over 13 months. She was also sentenced to 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, on October 10, 2018, Has Horns forcibly assaulted, resisted, opposed, impeded, intimidated, and interfered with a federal officer, with such assault involving physical contact and with the intent to commit another felony. At the time of the assault, the victim was employed as a federal law enforcement officer with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Interior, assigned to perform law enforcement functions and while he was engaged in the performance of his official duties.
In the afternoon of October 10, Has Horns and a third-party approached a residence in McLaughlin, South Dakota, seeking a ride from the homeowner. Has Horns and the third-party appeared intoxicated, and they subsequently engaged in a physical altercation on the front lawn. Law enforcement was then summoned, and the assault occurred.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services and the Corson County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
At the time of her sentencing, Has Horns had served the entirety of her sentence and was released to begin supervised release.
McLaughlin Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of a Person Incapable of ConsentRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Person Incapable of Consent.
Verl Janis, a/k/a “Bumpy”, age 38, was indicted on November 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 5, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a minimum of five years, and up to life, of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on September 1, 2019 Janis knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in a sexual act with an individual who was physically incapable of declining participation or communicating an unwillingness to engage in the sexual act.
The charge is merely an accusation and Janis is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Jasper is prosecuting the case.
Janis was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Little Eagle Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault of an Intimate Partner by Strangulation and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on December 4, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Arthur Taken Alive, Jr., age 52, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Taken Alive was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on August 27, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on October 10, 2018, when Taken Alive got into an argument with the victim and assaulted her by placing his hand over her mouth, making it difficult for the victim to breath.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Jasper prosecuted the case.
Taken Alive was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for False StatementRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of False Statement was sentenced on December 11, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Paul Stands For, age 24, was sentenced to 12 days in federal prison, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Stands For was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019. He pled guilty on September 17, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on April 18, 2019, where Stands For willfully and knowingly made a materially false statement to a Task Force Officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, by stating that a stolen handgun was his, when he in fact knew this statement was false. Stands For lied in order to obstruct an investigation into whether a convicted felon unlawfully possessed the stolen handgun.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Stands For was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sisseton Man Sentenced to Nearly 16 Years for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of abusive sexual contact was sentenced on December 4, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
David Wayne Carper, age 53, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, between on or about January 2017 and January 2018, Carper knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with the victim, that is, sexual contact by using force. Carper had the intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, and degrade the victim and engaged in such sexual contact to arouse and gratify his sexual desires. At the time of the sexual contact, Carper had at least one prior sex offense conviction.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Carper was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Tiffany Island, age 37, was sentenced on November 25, 2019, to 21 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stemmed from Island, a previously convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Fabrique Nationale Herstal, model FN Five-seveN USG, 5.7x28mm FN caliber semi-automatic pistol, which was found at Island’s Rapid City residence after police were called there for a disturbance on August 7, 2018.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Island was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Piedmont Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Threatening Communications and Repeated Telephone CallsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Piedmont, South Dakota, man convicted of Threatening Communications and Repeated Telephone Calls was sentenced on November 26, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Larry Wenthold, age 40, was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stemmed from Wenthold, who was living in Minnesota at the time, sending repeated texts and telephone calls to a female, and her mother and sister, in South Dakota. In the communications, the defendant repeatedly threatened their lives and put them in fear of death or serious bodily injury.
“You’d better think twice before you stalk, harass, or threaten someone with violence,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Wenthold was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
McLaughlin Man Sentenced to 20 Months for BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man was sentenced for Third Degree Burglary and Aiding and Abetting.
Lyle Daniel Mousseau, age 42, was sentenced on December 4, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann to 20 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $6,324.93 in restitution to the victim, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, on or about July 11, 2018, Lyle Daniel Mousseau and Alexander Guy Jones unlawfully entered and remained in an unoccupied structure in McLaughlin, with intent to commit the crime of larceny. Jones was convicted earlier this year and received a sentence of 11 months of custody.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Programs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted both cases.
Mousseau was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Washington Man Sentenced for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Puyallup, Washington, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death was sentenced on December 2, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Ian Royal Bjornstad, age 42, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bjornstad was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2018. He pled guilty on September 6, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about September 27, 2016, when Bjornstad knowingly and intentionally distributed heroin to another person in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. That person used the heroin Bjornstad sold him and shortly thereafter overdosed and died from it. But for the use of the heroin, that person would not have died.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Bjornstad was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mitchell Man Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Exploitation of a Child was sentenced on December 2, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Walter “Wally” Joseph Jandreau, age 36, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison, 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Jandreau was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018. He pled guilty on July 25, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between July 16, 2018, and July 23, 2018, when Jandreau knowingly coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct with him, for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct. While the sexually explicit conduct was occurring, Jandreau used his cell phone to take pictures and produced them using materials that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in interstate and foreign commerce, including a computer.
“This defendant engaged in truly despicable conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “He deserves every minute of every day of the long federal prison sentence issued to him by the Court.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Jandreau was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Accessory After the FactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Accessory After the Fact was sentenced on November 27, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jesse J. Waukechon, age 22, was sentenced to 8 months in federal prison, 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Waukechon was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2018. He pled guilty on August 26, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on June 3, 2018, in Mission, South Dakota. On that date, Waukechon and a male relative were at the Sunrise Apartment Complex in Mission, South Dakota, where they were working on a vehicle. An argument ensued between Waukechon and the victim. Waukechon and his relative subsequently got into his vehicle and began to leave the scene. The victim threw a can of beer at Waukechon’s vehicle. Waukechon stopped the vehicle and his relative produced a pistol, opened the passenger door and fired two rounds in the direction of the victim, striking him in the thigh. Waukechon drove from the scene, and assisted in concealing the pistol. Both men later admitted to the location of the pistol, and it was ultimately recovered. The co-defendant was previously sentenced for his role in the shooting. Both men will forfeit their interest in the pistol.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Waukechon was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wagner Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on November 26, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Harold Dean Johnson, Jr., age 40, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 7, 2019. He pled guilty on August 26, 2019.
The conviction stems from Johnson failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between February 19, 2019 and March 18, 2019. Johnson had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court which requires him to register for the rest of his life.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Johnson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Woman Sentenced for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft of Government Funds was sentenced on November 26, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Sina Crowe, age 32, was sentenced to 3 years of probation, $14,222.10 in restitution to the Social Security Administration, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Crowe was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2019. She pled guilty on August 22, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident between, on, or about July 1, 2017, and April 1, 2019, when Crowe willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole, purloined, and converted to her own use, money from departments or agencies of the United States, namely, Title XVI program benefits payments made to her deceased grandmother, Sharon Black Bear. The Title XVI program is administered by the United States Social Security Administration (SSA),
In approximately January 1999, Crowe’s grandmother began to receive Title XVI supplemental security income (SSI) benefits. She was her own payee. In February 2017, Crowe’s grandmother moved in with Crowe and her three minor children. At that time, Crowe’s grandmother was receiving her benefits payment via paper U.S. Treasury checks.
Crowe’s grandmother died on June 11, 2017 and SSA was not notified of her death. From July 1, 2017, through May 1, 2018, her benefits checks continued to be issued and mailed to Crowe’s address in Sioux Falls. Crowe received and negotiated these checks by either endorsing the checks in her own name or forging her deceased grandmother’s name. Crowe used the funds for her own purposes.
On May 10, 2018, SSA mailed a notice to Crowe’s grandmother confirming that the benefits payments would be deposited on a Direct Express card instead of being issued via paper check. The Direct Express card was issued in the grandmother’s name and was mailed to Crowe’s address in Sioux Falls. From June 1, 2018, through April 1, 2019, the payments were deposited on the Direct Express card. Crowe received the card and used the funds for her own purposes.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Marty Man Sentenced for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Marty, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on November 25, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
A’Shae Primeaux, age 21, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, restitution to the State of South Dakota Medicaid Program in the amount of $937.62, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Primeaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 8, 2019. He pled guilty on September 5, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 15, 2018, when Primeaux, who was very intoxicated at the time, entered a home without permission. While inside, he unlawfully assaulted two ladies who were visiting. He hit them with a shovel, striking both of them. One victim received seven stitches to her forehead, and the other victim required sutures to her scalp.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Primeaux was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Rapid City Men Found Guilty of CarjackingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Moses Crowe, age 26, was found guilty of Carjacking Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Discharge of Firearm During a Crime of Violence, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person; and Ranson Long Pumpkin, age 33, was found guilty of Carjacking Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Discharge of Firearm During a Crime of Violence, following a federal trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on November 21, 2019.
The Carjacking charge carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in federal prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, and 5 years of supervised release. The Discharge of a Firearm charge carries a mandatory 10 years up to life in prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, and 5 years of supervised release. The charge of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release. Each charge also carries a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Evidence at trial established that Crowe, Long Pumpkin, and a third person, Saul Crowe, were part of a carjacking of an occupied van on October 13, 2017. They held the victim at gunpoint and drove him to an isolated area north of Rapid City, where they pistol-whipped and beat him. Crowe then fired multiple rounds near the victim, while Long Pumpkin continued to assault him. Bullet casings from the location of the carjacking and beating were forensically matched to a weapon Crowe later abandoned in a vehicle after fleeing police. Prior to trial, Saul Crowe pled guilty to Carjacking Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence and was sentenced to 20 years in federal custody.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team; the Rapid City Police Department; the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office; the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and the RCPD/PCSO Special Response Team. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Sazama and Gina Nelson prosecuted and tried the case. ATF Special Agent Riley Cook was the lead case agent.
Presentence investigations were ordered and sentencing dates will be set. Crowe and Long Pumpkin were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Sioux Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Paul Erickson, age 58, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, appeared before District Judge Karen E. Schreier on November 26, 2019, and pled guilty to an Indictment that charged him with one Count of Wire Fraud and one Count of Money Laundering.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in federal prison, and/or up to $500,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Erickson solely operated a business venture to develop land in the Bakken oil fields in North Dakota. Through his business, he became acquainted with several individuals with whom he developed strong professional and personal relationships. He approached many of those individuals about investing in his business. However, he falsely represented to investors that he would use the money to purchase real estate and the construction of single-family homes in North Dakota, which he did not do.
On March 1, 2017, he accepted a $100,000 wire transfer that was deposited into his Wells Fargo bank account, which was supposed to be an investment in his business. He told the investor that the money would be used for the development of real estate in North Dakota and that the amount would be repaid no later than August 28, 2017. However, he did not invest the money received into the Bakken oil fields venture and he did not repay the investor.
Furthermore, from the $100,000 Erickson received on March 1, 2017, he conducted a financial transaction and transferred $1,000 to someone.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for March 2, 2020. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Third Degree BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Third Degree Burglary was sentenced on November 25, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Tevin Lapointe, age 25, was sentenced to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Restitution may also apply.
Lapointe was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2019. He pled guilty on September 10, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of July 17, 2019, wherein Lapointe broke into and burglarized the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Employment and Contracting Rights Office (TECRO) in Rosebud, and stole multiple items of property belonging to TECRO, including a pickup truck.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Lapointe was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Indicted on Meth and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Dustin Warnke, age 34, was indicted on November 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 26, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum 10 years, up to life in federal prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, at least 5 years, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning at a time unknown but no later than on or about the 1st day of March, 2018, and continuing to on or about November 13, 2019, Warnke did knowingly and intentionally, combine, conspire, confederate, and agree with persons known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Further, on the 5th day of January 2019, Warnke, knowing he was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a .40 Smith & Wesson caliber, semi-automatic pistol.
The charges are merely accusations and Warnke is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Pierre Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Warnke was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Minnesota Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Paul, Minnesota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 25, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Frank Edward Adams, a/k/a Tank Adams, age 45, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison, followed by 7 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Adams was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2018. He was found guilty by a jury on August 22, 2019.
The jury found that from December 1, 2015, until November 14, 2018, Adams had knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, which is a Schedule II controlled substance, on the Crow Creek and Lower Brule reservations in South Dakota.
Evidence established that Adams was the nucleus of a large drug trafficking conspiracy that involved well over 4600 grams of methamphetamine. Adams supplied large quantities of methamphetamine several times a month, including the first of the month when tribal assistance funds were available, to the Crow Creek and Lower Brule reservations in South Dakota. Adams engaged several dealers on both reservations to distribute meth.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Crow Creek Agency, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Pierre Police Department, and the Minnesota State Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges and Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Adams was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Failing to Pay TaxesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Failure to Pay Tax was sentenced on November 22, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Gregory Sperlich, age 49, was sentenced to 3 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $227,799.82, $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $50.
Sperlich was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 22, 2019. He pled guilty on September 20, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from Sperlich, an attorney, willfully failing to pay the income and self-employment tax due to the Internal Revenue Service by April 15, 2013, through April 15, 2016, for the filed taxes due for the calendar years 2012 through 2015.
“Taxpayers have an obligation to pay their taxes. Willfully defrauding the government of what is owed can and will result in jail time,” said Special Agent in Charge Karl Stiften, IRS Criminal Investigation Division.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Sperlich will self-report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on January 2, 2020, to serve his sentence.
Attorney General Recognizes South Dakota Victim Witness Coordinator for Exceptional Service in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Marlys Big Eagle, Victim Witness Coordinator for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota, was one of only 295 department employees nationwide recognized by Attorney General William P. Barr at the 67th Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony, held recently at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. The Attorney General’s Award is the most coveted and prestigious national award given to members of the United States Department of Justice. This annual ceremony recognizes employees and other individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievements, leadership, and service to the Department of Justice and the American people. Big Eagle was recognized by Attorney General Barr for her exceptional service in Indian Country. U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons attended the ceremony at Constitution Hall with Big Eagle.
“Our greatest strength in our fight for justice is our people – the thousands of men and women who have dedicated their careers, often at great personal sacrifice, to working for justice in America,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “As we reflect on the contributions of each of the individuals we honor today, we should hold them up as examples of excellence that continue to inspire our own commitment, and also as reminders of the professionalism and the qualities exhibited throughout the Department.”
“Our friend and colleague Marlys Big Eagle is incredibly deserving of this prestigious honor,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “She is a truly exceptional person and, as this award confirms, one of the brightest lights and most powerful advocates for victim rights and the welfare of those living in Native American communities in the entire Department of Justice.”
Ms. Big Eagle, an enrolled member of the Hunkpati Oyate Crow Creek Sioux (Tribe), has provided victim services for the District of South Dakota since 1998 and is the principal coordinator supervising two additional victim-witness providers. In the coordinator capacity, Ms. Big Eagle supervises all aspects of the office’s victim witness program, including providing services, coordinating trial victims and witnesses, and conducting training for all of the office’s personnel.
Ms. Big Eagle’s leadership has long been recognized by Federal, State, and Tribal prosecutors, law enforcement officers, other victim assistance providers, and Tribal leaders. Her 21-years of service with the Department of Justice has resulted in an exponential improvement in the delivery of crucial services to Indian Country victims. Her unique perspective as an enrolled Tribe member and her wealth of knowledge and experience has made a decisively positive impact in the lives of thousands of Native American women and children who have had to make the complex journey through the Federal criminal justice system.
Separately, as part of the EOUSA Mentorship program, Ms. Big Eagle has provided national instruction, leadership, and services to numerous other districts when called upon to assist with federal prosecutions in Indian Country. Because of her widely acknowledged expertise, she has mentored, trained and started Indian Country victim assistance programs in Nebraska, Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Virginia, and Utah. Ms. Big Eagle is regularly called upon by other victim advocates from across the country for guidance on Indian Country victim-witness issues and how these issues interplay with complicated Department of Justice policy and regulations.
Ms. Big Eagle has also developed and produced written and video training material to provide guidance to children and adult victims and witnesses in the criminal justice process. This material includes the “Tell the Truth” children's video and the adult court orientation video “A Journey through the Federal Justice System,” both of which are used extensively by prosecutors to prepare victims for the stressful process of being a witness in a federal trial. In 2018, Ms. Big Eagle volunteered for the Hurricane relief efforts as part of FEMA’s request to the Department Of Justice for Surge Capacity assistance. Most recently, Ms. Big Eagle helped to develop and appears in an educational awareness video addressing sex trafficking in Indian Country. Entitled “REACH to End Sex Trafficking in Native American Communities.” The video was released in February 2019 and is being distributed nationwide.
In addition to her home district responsibilities, Ms. Big Eagle served on the EOUSA’s Rapid Response Victim Assistance Team. In this capacity, she has lent her extraordinary expertise working with victims in several large-scale federal prosecutions nationwide. Those efforts include spending weeks in Charleston, S.C., working with the deceased victims’ surviving family members in the United States v. Dylan Roof federal hate-crime prosecution; working with the deceased victims’ family members in the United States v. Whitey Bulger racketeering and murder prosecution in Boston; and working with elderly victims of a large-scale Jamaican lottery scheme targeting victims across the upper Midwest.
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Roberts County Man Sentenced to Nearly 5 Years for Aggravated Assault of GirlfriendRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Roberts County, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on November 18, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
John Matthew Pilcher, age 49, was sentenced to 59 months of federal custody, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, on November 10, 2018, Pilcher assaulted the victim with a dangerous weapon, namely, a knife, with the intent to do bodily harm. Pilcher and the victim were in a dating relationship. At some point on the night of November 10, they got into a verbal disagreement. In the midst of their argument, Pilcher pulled out a knife and stabbed the victim in the neck. Defendant acted with specific intent to assault the victim with the knife.
The victim was transported to the local hospital and then to Sanford Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota, where she underwent surgery to receive critical care for life-threatening trauma caused by the stabbing. The victim’s neck arteries and veins were lacerated, including a very small cut to her jugular vein.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Pilcher was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted by virtue of a guilty plea to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 15, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Sebastian Hoff, age 29, was sentenced to 17.5 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From May 2017 through August 2017, co-conspirator Dana Faulkner transported and arranged transportation of 15-45 kilograms of methamphetamine to South Dakota from Colorado. Hoff was one of the multiple sub-distributors who dealt Faulkner’s methamphetamine in the Rapid City area.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case. Multiple co-conspirators have already been sentenced and one more remains pending sentencing.
Hoff was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pukwana Man Charged with Abusive Sexual Contact of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pukwana, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child.
Michael Dean Johnson, age 27, was indicted on November 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 15, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum of 5 years, and up to life, of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between January 2015 and January 2017, Johnson knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with a child who had not attained the age of 12.
The charge is merely an accusation and Johnson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Johnson was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Oacoma Man Sentenced for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Oacoma, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on November 19, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Micah Brown, age 27, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, forfeiture of a firearm, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Brown was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018. He pled guilty on August 7, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on July 1, 2018, when law enforcement responded to a call of an alleged assault occurring in Fort Thompson, South Dakota, involving Brown and his ex-girlfriend. Upon arrival, law enforcement observed a shotgun in the front passenger compartment of Brown’s vehicle. Brown, who has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for term exceeding one year, is prohibited from being in possession of a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Crow Creek Agency and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Brown was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
North Dakota Woman Sentenced for TheftRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Yates, North Dakota, woman convicted of Theft by an Employee of an Indian Gaming Establishment was sentenced on November 18, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Candace Crow Ghost, age 42, was sentenced to 160 days in federal prison, followed by 24 months of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $5,300.83, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Crow Ghost was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019. She pled guilty on August 27, 2019.
Between December 2016 and March 2017, Crow Ghost was the marketing director for the Grand River Casino, located on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. Crow Ghost developed a scheme whereby she would obtain prescription pain pills by adjusting points on individual players club rewards cards to pay for the drugs she was receiving. After adjusting the points, Crow Ghost would prepare vouchers and help the individuals redeem their illegally obtained points for cash. Crow Ghost would also comp rooms and meals to the individuals involved in the scheme. During the course of her employment, Crow Ghost added 426,000 points to various players’ accounts and comped over $1,000 in rooms and meals, resulting in a total loss to the Grand River Casino of $5,300.83.
The case was brought as part of The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities.
Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Crow Ghost was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Woman Charged with Assault and Evidence TamperingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Evidence Tampering.
Lisa Walking Bull, age 47, was indicted on November 13, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 22, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on August 22, 2019, Walking Bull assaulted an individual with a bat with the intent to do bodily harm and then further altered, destroyed, and concealed the bat with the intent to impair its integrity and availability for use in a criminal proceeding.
The charges are merely accusations and Walking Bull is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Walking Bull was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Ian Cook, age 35, was indicted on November 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 15, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on October 22, 2019, Cook did forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a federal officer while the officer was in the performance of his official duties and said contact did involve physical contact.
The charge is merely an accusation and Cook is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Cook was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Agency Village Man Sentenced to 3 Years for Aggravated Assault of GirlfriendRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Agency Village, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault of a Partner by Strangulation was sentenced on November 18, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Joshua John Max, age 36, was sentenced to 36 months of federal custody, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, on April 25, 2015, Max unlawfully assaulted an intimate partner and dating partner by strangling and suffocating, and attempting to do so. Max and the victim were in a dating relationship. On April 25, 2015, Max tried to call the victim all morning, but did not reach her. Her doors were locked, but Max entered the house by climbing through a window. Max became angry after looking at her cellular telephone and seeing something on her Facebook account that bothered him. Max grabbed the victim, pushed her down on the bed, and choked her, causing bodily injuries to her neck and throat.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Max was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Chicago Drug Dealers Convicted by Jury on Multiple Distribution CountsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Maurice Bellafonta Cathey, a/k/a “Short”, age 39, of Chicago, Illinois, was found guilty of two counts of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death, and two counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, on November 20, 2018, as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
In addition, Corrod Leon Phillips, age 28, of Chicago, Illinois, was found guilty of two counts of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and two counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, as a result of the same federal jury trial.
“These defendants are the authors of one of the worst public health crises that this area has ever seen,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “They are responsible for importing and selling most of the heroin laced with fentanyl that caused so many overdoses in Sioux Falls last year. The suffering, death, and destruction that they have visited upon so many families in this community is immeasurable. We are forever grateful to the members of federal, state, and local law enforcement who brought these misery profiteers to justice and to the federal jury who rendered its unanimous verdict in this critically important case.”
Cathey faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life imprisonment, while Phillips faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Phillips was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2018. Cathey was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 10, 2018. Their cases were joined by a second superseding indictment on October 10, 2018.
On January 5, 2018, first responders reported to a fatal overdose of a 22-year-old man at an apartment in Sioux Falls. The victim was unresponsive and attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. A friend of the victim who was with him said that the victim had injected himself with heroin. The victim obtained heroin from his friend that had been distributed by Cathey. Minnehaha County Coroner Dr. Kenneth Snell ruled that the victim’s cause of death was heroin and cyclopropyl fentanyl toxicity.
On February 9, 2018, first responders were dispatched to a fast food restaurant on South Minnesota Avenue for a report of cardiac arrest, where they found a 20-year-old woman who was unconscious and not breathing due to a heroin overdose. The victim was revived by first responders with Narcan. Cathey sold the heroin to the victim minutes before her overdose.
On April 23, 2018, first responders were dispatched to an overdose call at an apartment in Sioux Falls. First responders encountered a 24-year-old man who had overdosed on heroin laced with tramadol, 4-ANPP, and fentanyl, ultimately distributed by Cathey and Phillips. The victim was unconscious and not breathing when first responders arrived, but was revived by Narcan.
On May 16, 2018, a 23-year-old man overdosed on heroin in the bathroom of a grocery store in Sioux Falls. First responders found him unconscious and breathing poorly, and were able to awaken him with Narcan. The victim said he purchased the heroin from Phillips less than an hour before his overdose.
Testimony at trial revealed that multiple other overdoses, including at least one additional death, were caused by heroin distributed by Cathey and Phillips.
The Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force executed multiple search warrants during the investigation at residences connected to Cathey and Phillips. During the execution of these warrants, SFADTF members located dozens of bindles of crack cocaine and heroin, thousands of dollars in U.S. Currency, and numerous items of drug distribution paraphernalia.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Presentence investigation reports were ordered and sentencing dates have not been set yet. The defendants were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Owner and Supervisors of Idaho Company Sentenced in Federal Court for Fraud ConvictionsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Idaho business owner, two of his supervisors, and the company, convicted of Wire Fraud and Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, were sentenced on November 18, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Christopher A. Hoshaw, age 45, of Meridian, Idaho; Calvin Pelichet, age 45, of Boise, Idaho; Kristin DeBoer, age 51, of Caldwell, Idaho; and the company, All Around Sports, LLC, all appeared before Judge Lawrence L. Piersol on November 18, 2019, for sentencing on each of their respective convictions for wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Hoshaw appeared on behalf of All Around Sports, LLC, a Boise-based company.
Pelichet, the sales manager at AAS, received the most significant sentence of 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release following his incarceration. Hoshaw was sentenced to 12 months of home detention and 5 years of probation. DeBoer was sentenced to 4 months of home detention and 2 years of probation. All Around Sports, LLC, was sentenced to 3 years of probation. Hoshaw, Pelichet, and All Around Sports, LLC, were also ordered to jointly and severally pay restitution of $157,450 to two Alaskan Native entities. While the individual defendants were not fined, All Around Sports, LLC, was fined $42,000.
“These defendants devised a complicated criminal scheme to steal from the Oglala Sioux Tribe,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “The Guardians Project was implemented to detect this type of fraud and punish those who seek to commit it. We couldn’t be more pleased with the results.”
“All Around Sports and its executives expected to fatten their bottom lines by defrauding the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Instead they received richly deserved sentences,” said Curt L. Muller, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We look forward to working with all our law enforcement partners – including on the U.S. Attorney’s Guardian Project to fight fraud and prevent criminals from victimizing Indian Country communities.”
According to documents filed with the Court, Christopher A. Hoshaw, Calvin Pelichet, and Kristin DeBoer devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud the Oglala Sioux Tribe, and to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises. For the purpose of executing the scheme and artifice, Hoshaw, Pelichet, and DeBoer knowingly caused to be transmitted by means of wire communication in interstate commerce the signals and sounds to effectuate the withdrawal of funds from a banking account belonging to the Oglala Sioux Tribe, at The First National Bank of Gordon in Gordon, Nebraska, to an account belonging to All Around Sports, L.L.C., at Idaho Central Credit Union in the State and District of Idaho.
As for All Around Sports, LLC, beginning at a time unknown but no later than on or about December 2015, and continuing through December 2016, All Around Sports, LLC, along with others, conspired to commit the offense of wire fraud in South Dakota and elsewhere. By and through company representatives, All Around Sports, LLC, willfully and unlawfully devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud and to obtain money and property from others by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises. Those representatives knowingly participated, using the company as a conduit, by receiving money transfers from sources they knew were the victims of the fraudulent scheme. Those representatives also acted willfully for the purpose of enriching the company and themselves, knowing of the unlawful purpose of the scheme when they participated in it. The object of the conspiracy was to enrich AAS’ owner, managers, and employees by obtaining fraudulent funds.
These investigations were conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. The cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri.
These cases were brought pursuant to the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities.
Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Sioux Falls Woman Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on November 15, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Sharon Dvorak, age 49, was sentenced to time served, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Dvorak was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 5, 2019. She pled guilty on August 5, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between on or about July 16, 2018, and July 19, 2018, when Dvorak knowingly possessed child pornography that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.
While on Facebook, Dvorak communicated with three individuals on the internet. Their messages were sexual in nature and they exchanged images of child pornography. Some of the images included prepubescent children.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Mission Man Indicted for Aggravated SexualRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Sexual Abuse.
Larry Black Lance, III, age 28, was indicted on November 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 15, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 25, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota, Black Lance knowingly engaged in a sexual act with the victim, by the use of force, and that the victim was incapable of declining participation in the sexual act.
The charges are merely accusations and Black Lance is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Black Lance was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Charged with Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.
David D. Larvie, Jr., age 37, was indicted on November 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 15, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on October 25, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota, Larvie, having previously been convicted of a felony, knowingly possessed a firearm and ammunition.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The charge is merely an accusation and Larvie is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Larvie was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Fort Thompson Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Sexual Abuse.
Devon Wayne Saul, age 27, was indicted on November 5, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 14, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
According to the Indictment, on August 18, 2019, in Buffalo County, South Dakota, Saul knowingly caused and attempted to cause the victim to engage in a sexual act by using force. The indictment also alleges that Saul engaged in a sexual act with the victim while the victim was incapable of appraising the nature of the conduct, or physically incapable of declining participation in and communicating her unwillingness to engage in the sexual act.
The maximum penalties upon conviction for each count are as follows: up to life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine; a mandatory minimum term of five (5) years, up to life, of supervised release; $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund; $5,000 assessment to the domestic trafficking fund; and restitution may be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations and Saul is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Saul was released to the custody of third party custodians. A trial date of January 14, 2020, has been set.
Faulkton Man Charged with Obstruction of Correspondence and Delay or Destruction of MailRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Faulkton, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Obstruction of Correspondence and Delay or Destruction of Mail.
Kenneth Jones, age 60, was indicted on September 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 14, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between August 1, 2018, and September 26, 2018, Jones, who was employed as an officer with the United States Postal Service, opened, embezzled, delayed, and destroyed mail that was entrusted to him to deliver.
The charges are merely accusations and Jones is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Officer of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Jones was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Porcupine Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting a Federal Officer.
Ian Spotted Bear, age 24, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Spotted Bear pushing, striking, kicking, and physically resisting an officer on August 27, 2019, near Pine Ridge.
The charge is merely an accusation and Spotted Bear is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Spotted Bear was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for January 7, 2020.
Wanblee Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wanblee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Charles Wakinya Zi Janis, age 37, was sentenced on October 28, 2019, to 2 years in a federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Janis charging an Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety officer, after the officer responded to a call at Sharps Housing near Porcupine, South Dakota. Janis then picked up a hatchet from the front yard and made slashing movements with it towards officers. An officer used a Taser to subdue and apprehend Janis.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassandra DeCoste prosecuted the case.
Janis was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sturgis Man Charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Dustin Island, age 40, was charged on October 22, 2019. Island appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 8, 2019, and plead not guilty to the charges.
The penalty upon conviction is a minimum of 5 years up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years up to life supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Island possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and unlawfully possessing a semi-automatic pistol in June 2019 in Meade County. The charges are merely an accusation and Island is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Island was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
Anthony Cory Plante, age 20, was indicted on July 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 7, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between January 2017 and February 2017, in McLaughlin, South Dakota, Plante knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act by use of force with a minor who had attained the age of 12 but had not attained the age of 16, and who was at least 4 years younger than Plante.
The charge is merely an accusation and Plante is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Jasper is prosecuting the case.
Plante was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Dwight Black Spotted Horse, age 35, was indicted on September 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 6, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Black Spotted Horse was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in October 2006. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between June 16, 2019, and September 10, 2019, Black Spotted Horse, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender.
The charge is merely an accusation and Black Spotted Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Black Spotted Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Found Guilty for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Eli Erickson, a/k/a Black, age 32, of Mission, South Dakota, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Drug User in Possession of Firearms as a result of a 3-day federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of at least 15 years up to life in federal prison, and/or a $10,000,000 fine, at least 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered, as well as forfeiture of numerous firearms and U.S. currency.
Erickson was indicted on November 14, 2018, and a Superseding Indictment was filed on September 10, 2019.
From 2015 through 2018, Erickson knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. The trial testimony showed the conspiracy involved importing pounds of methamphetamine from Nebraska and distributing it on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. During this time, Erickson possessed two firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking operation, namely by using the weapons to protect his home from which he sold methamphetamine. Erickson also possessed these firearms, and a number of other firearms, while being a methamphetamine user.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services; the Stanley County Sherriff’s Office; the Lexington, Nebraska, Police Department; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
A sentencing date has not been set. Erickson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on November 7, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Vine Janis, age 39, was sentenced to 4 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Janis was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019. He pled guilty on August 12, 2019.
Janis was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in June 2001. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. Janis updated the sex offender registry on February 7, 2018, to an address in Cherry Creek, South Dakota. On May 31, 2018, a compliance officer did a compliance check at the listed Cherry Creek address and found that Janis had moved out of the residence. Janis was later found residing at another address. From April 1, 2018, through the time of his arrest on June 18, 2018, Janis did not register as a sex offender or update his sex offender registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Janis was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Rapid City Men Charged with Multiple Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Rapid City, South Dakota, men were charged in federal district court on October 22, 2019, with multiple firearm offenses.
Devin Byker and Craig Hirschfield, both age 25, were charged with Carjacking and Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence. Byker was also charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Stolen Firearm. Byker and Hirschfield appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 4, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The penalty upon conviction is 5 years up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Byker and Hirschfield stealing a motor vehicle at gunpoint in Rapid City in June 2019. Additionally Byker, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessed a stolen .357 double-action revolver. The charges are merely accusations and Byker and Hirschfield are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Box Elder Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Byker and Hirschfield were detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.
Damian Buchholz, age 33, was charged on October 22, 2019. Buchholz appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 1, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Buchholz, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a semi-automatic pistol and a revolver, both with an obliterated serial number, in September 2019 at Rapid City. The charges are merely accusations and Buchholz is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Buchholz was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Adam Seales, age 25, was charged on October 22, 2019. Seales appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 1, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Seales, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a semi-automatic pistol in September 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Seales is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Seales was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.